Ben Hicks

Creating Executive Presence in Virtual Meetings

December 2, 2025 by Ben Hicks

How to Show Up Looking Like a CEO in Team Meetings

You’ve built your career on results. You’ve earned your seat at the table. But when you show up on screen in virtual meetings, something fundamental breaks down—and it’s costing you more than you realize.

Your teams can’t see the confidence in your eyes. Your board notices a disconnect they can’t quite name. Your direct reports disengage halfway through your town halls. And the feedback you’re getting is frustratingly vague: “We need more energy.” “Can you be more present?” “Something feels off.”

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: In a virtual-first world, your executive presence isn’t being measured by your track record or your strategic vision alone. It’s being judged in the first three seconds of every video call—before you’ve said a single word. Poor lighting, awkward camera angles, flat audio, and distracted body language are quietly eroding the authority you’ve spent decades building.

This isn’t about vanity or being camera-ready. This is about influence at scale. When you’re leading distributed teams, managing investor expectations, or presenting to the board, your virtual presence is your presence. Period. And right now, too many Fortune 500 leaders are showing up like they’re hiding from their own message—low energy, disconnected, literally in the dark.

If you keep showing up small, scattered, and unsure, no one will step up to follow you.

Magnetic leaders don’t hope to be seen. They make it impossible to look away.

When Your Boss Notices You’re Not Showing Up

I recently worked with a North American president at a global company. His CEO instructed him to hire a media trainer to improve his online meeting presence. The CEO couldn’t explain exactly what to do. They just said, “Fix it.” When the president reached out, we saw the issues immediately. He wasn’t showing up in meetings the way he should. He was in the dark when presenting to his teams. He needed better artificial lighting or to face the window in his office, and he was looking off to the side at other monitors while leading his teams instead of looking directly into the camera.

Our body language, or how we present ourselves to others, accounts for more than 50% of our message. His audience literally couldn’t see his eyes or connect with him as a result. It was hurting his reputation.

The transformation took just a few hours. We worked with him to reposition his setup, adjust his camera, add proper lighting, and coached him on where to look. The impact was immediate. His employees felt engaged for the first time in months.

This isn’t about vanity. It’s about influence. And you can make these same changes starting today.

We also changed how he delivered his live town halls from one of his factories. We fixed the audio, the framing of the shot, the equipment used, his body language, the messaging, and the way he segued to his subject matter experts, improving the experience for hundreds of employees.

Five Pillars of Virtual Executive Presence

1. Camera Angle: Meet People Eye-to-Eye

Your camera angle speaks volumes before you say a single word.

Too high? You look weak and meek, like someone asking for permission rather than leading with authority. No company wants its leaders looking small.

Too low? You’re literally looking down on people, which creates an unintentional power dynamic. The focus should be on your eyes, not on your neck or jacket collar.

The solution: Position your camera at eye level. Imagine a level tool measuring from your eyes to the center of the camera lens. This creates an even, respectful connection with everyone you’re leading.

2. Lighting: Look Like the Leader You Are

Poor lighting makes you look tired, unprepared, and less trustworthy, even if you’re none of those things. Those harsh overhead ceiling lights? They’re creating dark circles and shadows you don’t actually have.

You don’t need to show up looking like an Instagram influencer, but you should look rested, confident, and trustworthy.

One tip I like to share with my clients. If you have a window, try to face that whenever possible and add a light source in front of you. When I set up for a video call while traveling, I take every lamp in my hotel room and arrange them in front of me. Yes, it takes a few extra minutes. But those minutes are worth the credibility you gain.

3. Body Language: Lean into Leadership

Awareness of your body language is the first step to improving your executive presence. Leaning back signals disinterest, fatigue, and disengagement. It says you’d rather be anywhere else.

Instead, lean forward. Your body language should communicate that “I’m excited to be here. I’m going to deliver on time and exceed expectations. Your physical presence should match the promises you’re making.

Make direct eye contact with the camera. Sit with energy and intention. Your body is speaking volumes, so make sure it’s saying the right things.

4. Audio Quality: The Non-Negotiable Element

Research shows that people will tolerate less-than-perfect video quality, but poor audio? They tune out immediately. They’ll switch to another podcast, leave the meeting mentally, or remove their earbuds altogether.

I always tell clients, do not rely on the computer microphone. Invest in an external microphone, as it makes a significant difference in delivering your message.

When speaking, make sure your doors are closed and try to eliminate any background noise.

Great audio isn’t optional. It’s the foundation that allows people to actually hear your message.

5. What You Wear: Color Matters

Wear clothes that make you feel powerful and look great on camera. When you’re staring at yourself during an online meeting, you shouldn’t be critiquing your outfit or doubting your color choice. You should feel confident and focused on your message.

Certain colors evoke confidence and trust. Others can wash you out or undermine your presence.

Take time to test this. Record yourself on your phone wearing different colors. Review your recorded meetings. Ask yourself: Does this color brighten my face? Does it make me feel powerful? Does it align with the message I want to send?

Choose colors that complement you well, not ones that detract from your presence.

The Bottom Line: Your Presence Is Your Power

Executive presence isn’t about hoping people notice you. It’s about making it impossible for them to look away. It’s about showing up with such clarity, confidence, and intention that your team, your investors, and your board feel compelled to lean in and listen.

You don’t need a complete transformation. You need strategic adjustments that compound into undeniable influence. Start with these five pillars and watch how quickly people respond differently to your leadership.

Because magnetic leaders are built, one intentional choice at a time.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in training leaders to accelerate growth, command attention, and drive innovation through impactful communication. If you’re ready to transform from expert to influential leader, refine your presence, project confidence, and take control of your message, reach out today to learn how we can help.

Stop Using Digital Backgrounds: They Could Be Killing Your Executive Presence

November 17, 2025 by Ben Hicks

I’m going to share a piece of advice that might seem controversial. Those fake backgrounds you are using for virtual meetings or presentations – STOP USING THEM.

That tropical beach or fake office backdrop you’re using isn’t fooling anyone. In fact, it’s doing the opposite. It’s making you look unprofessional, untrustworthy, and frankly, a little lazy.

If you’re a leader trying to close deals, inspire your team, or impress the board, digital backgrounds are damaging your credibility before you even speak.

Here’s why you should ditch them immediately and what to do instead.

The Digital Background Problem

Think about what happens when you use a digital background. Your fingers disappear mid-gesture. Chunks of your hair vanish when you turn your head. You’ve seen it happen to others, and yes, it’s happening to you. And your team is too embarrassed to tell you.

digital zoom background blunder example - video meeting

Here’s the truth: you’re not a TV studio. Meteorologists use green screens with professional lighting, a whole crew, and a director, ensuring everything looks seamless. You’re sitting in your office with a laptop camera. There’s a massive difference, and your audience can tell.

Why Authenticity Matters More Than Ever

Beyond the technical glitches, digital backgrounds convey a message: you’re hiding something and not showing your genuine self.

In business, transparency builds trust——and much of that trust is built through body language, eye contact, and the subtle cues that digital filters tend to obscure. When you hide behind an artificial environment, you create distance between yourself and your audience. Clients, employees, and board members want to see the real you.

The digital background trend that exploded in 2020 is fading, and for good reason. Research is showing that what people learn from your background helps them connect with you.

What Should Be in Your Background Instead?

Once you’ve removed that digital backdrop, you need to be strategic about what people see behind you.

Keep It Simple and Focused

Your background should never compete with you for attention. Walk around your office right now and look for distractions:

Frames catching light and creating glare
Busy patterns or bright colors
Items that might be politically divisive
Anything your audience might try to read instead of listening to you

Remove or relocate anything that pulls focus away from your message.

Create Depth

Don’t sit right up against a wall. It makes you look like you’re being interrogated rather than leading a conversation. Create some distance between yourself and the background. Even just a few feet can make a dramatic difference.

In a small space, you can create the illusion of depth by adding lighting behind you.

Consider Your Colors

You don’t want to blend into your background like a floating head. If you’re wearing dark colors, make sure your background provides contrast. Choose timeless, non-distracting colors that let you pop without overwhelming your message.

Save the Hawaiian shirts and team jerseys for your personal time.

But My Company Requires Branded Backgrounds…

This is a common concern, especially in large corporations.

If your company mandates digital backgrounds with logos, you have options:

First, make your case.

Share the reasoning behind why digital backgrounds undermine credibility. Share this video that makes a case against digital backgrounds! Explain that they make experts look amateur. Most executives will understand once they see the why behind the recommendation.

If that doesn’t work, mitigate the damage:

Use excellent lighting to reduce glitching
Choose the simplest version possible: one solid color with minimal branding
Avoid animated elements or complex images
Stay as still as possible (though this ironically pulls your focus away from the actual conversation)

The Bottom Line About Virtual Background During Meetings

Your executive presence is too valuable to be undermined by technical glitches. Digital backgrounds make you look less credible, less trustworthy, and less professional. This is the EXACT opposite of what you’re trying to achieve.

People hire experts who seem confident and authentic. They trust leaders who show up as real, not manufactured. When you ditch the digital background and optimize your actual space, you signal that you have nothing to hide and everything to offer.

Your next video call is an opportunity to show up as the magnetic, influential leader you are. Don’t let a glitchy tropical beach stand in your way.

Why High-Performing Executives Can’t Afford to Skip Self-Care: Your Leadership Depends on It

November 11, 2025 by Ben Hicks

The Executive Paradox: Why Leaders Struggle with Self-Care

As an executive coach, I’ve witnessed a troubling pattern among C-suite leaders and senior executives: the very traits that drive exceptional short-term business performance (relentless focus, putting others first, and pushing through challenges) often become barriers to long-term leadership effectiveness and personal well-being.

Research from the Mayo Clinic reveals that 51.3% of executives report high stress levels. Okay, raise your hand if you were studied and didn’t admit to experiencing high stress. I’ve been there. You think, “this isn’t high stress… this is just work. I love my work. I don’t need anything else…” and then you’re in the hospital getting MRIs because you can’t stand up without getting dizzy, and doctors think you had a stroke (and you end up being diagnosed with vertigo).

This isn’t just a personal problem, it’s a business imperative that directly impacts decision-making quality, team performance, and organizational culture.

In other words, listen closely: it’s impacting your leadership.

The Oxygen Mask Principle for Executive Leadership

Every frequent flyer knows the airline safety instruction: “Put your own oxygen mask on first before helping others.” This principle is perhaps nowhere more critical than in executive leadership. I stand on stages all over North America and talk about this. I explain that this isn’t just for mothers. It’s for ALL leaders. Yet most leaders I work with struggle with this concept, viewing self-care as selfish or secondary to their responsibilities.

The reality: When executives neglect their physical health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being, they compromise their ability to lead effectively.

You cannot pour from an empty cup, and attempting to do so inevitably leads to:

Decreased decision-making quality under chronic stress
Reduced emotional intelligence and team communication
Higher risk of executive burnout and costly leadership turnover
Negative modeling for organizational culture and employee well-being

Data shows that 63% of Fortune 500 boards now formally assess executive health metrics, highlighting how critical executive wellness has become to organizational success.

The Hidden Cost of Executive Neglect

High-achieving executives often operate under the dangerous misconception that self-care is a luxury they can’t afford. The data tells a different story:

Research shows that companies can see an ROI of up to $6 for every $1 invested in comprehensive wellness programs
Organizations with leadership wellness initiatives report higher employee engagement and retention rates
Executives are sleeping up to 25% less and working approximately 25% more than average employees, significantly impacting their performance capacity

When you’re not in the right mindset or not feeling well physically, you’re not just failing yourself, you’re limiting your effectiveness for your team, stakeholders, and organization.

The Executive Presence Connection: How Self-Care Impacts Your Professional Image

Your self-care practices have a direct impact on how others perceive your leadership capabilities.

Physical Vitality as Leadership Currency

Proper hydration keeps your skin looking healthy and vibrant — crucial when you’re the face of your organization.
Quality sleep prevents the tired, worn-down appearance that undermines executive presence.
Balanced nutrition helps maintain steady energy levels, preventing the afternoon crashes that can affect your speaking voice and mental sharpness.

Smart executives know that what you do before high-stakes moments matter.

Avoid over-caffeinating before important presentations — it creates jittery energy that your audience can sense.
Get 7+ hours of sleep before board meetings to ensure clear thinking and confident delivery.
Stay hydrated throughout the day to maintain vocal clarity and prevent dry mouth, a common issue that affects public speaking.

The Compound Effect: When you consistently practice self-care, you develop what I call “executive magnetism” — that hard-to-define quality where people naturally want to follow your lead. It’s not just about what you say; it’s about the energy and presence you bring to every interaction.

Essential Self-Care Strategies for Executive Performance

Executive Stress Management Through Movement

Physical exercise isn’t just about fitness; it’s cognitive performance enhancement.

Regular exercise:

Improves executive function and strategic thinking
Reduces cortisol levels that impair decision-making
Increases energy levels for demanding leadership roles

Even 20 minutes of morning movement can significantly impact your leadership presence throughout the day.

Mindfulness and Mental Clarity for Leaders

Meditation and mindfulness practices aren’t new-age concepts — they’re performance tools used by top executives worldwide.

Regular practice enhances:

Focus and attention management
Emotional regulation during high-stakes situations
Creative problem-solving capabilities

Strategic Relationship Investment

Time with family and trusted friends isn’t separate from your professional success — it’s foundational to it.

Strong personal relationships provide:

Emotional support during challenging periods
Perspective and balance that enhances decision-making
Energy renewal that sustains long-term performance

Implementing Executive Self-Care: A Strategic Approach

Start with Non-Negotiables

Identify 2-3 self-care practices that you commit to regardless of business demands:

Daily 10-minute meditation or breathing exercises
Weekly one-on-one time with family members
Consistent sleep schedule (7+ hours nightly)

Build Systems, Not Just Habits

Create structural support for your well-being:

Calendar blocking for self-care activities
Accountability partnerships with other executives or coaches
Regular executive coaching sessions focused on sustainable performance

Measure What Matters

Track metrics that matter for executive well-being:

Energy levels throughout the week
Decision-making quality indicators
Stress management effectiveness
Team and family relationship quality

The ROI of Executive Self-Care

Self-care for executives isn’t about work-life balance—it’s about sustainable high performance. When you prioritize your physical health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being, you’re making a strategic investment in:

Enhanced leadership presence and decision-making capabilities
Increased resilience during market volatility and organizational challenges
Better team performance through positive modeling and clear communication
Long-term career sustainability and personal fulfillment

Your Next Steps: From Insight to Action

Assess honestly: Where are you currently compromising your well-being for short-term business demands?
Choose strategically: Select 1-2 self-care practices that align with your leadership goals and schedule
Implement systematically: Build structural support and accountability for consistent practice
Evaluate regularly: Track the impact on your leadership effectiveness and adjust accordingly

Remember: Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s an essential leadership strategy. Your team, organization, and family need you at your best, and that requires putting your own oxygen mask on first.

What Diet Coke Teaches Us About Leadership Presence

November 11, 2025 by Ben Hicks

How Small Habits Can Undermine Your Confidence and Influence Without You Realizing It

As I’ve reflected on this year, one theme keeps surfacing: our work goes far beyond public speaking, messaging, or media training.

At JPG, we transform experts into magnetic, inspirational leaders.

We work with highly technical people — engineers, scientists, and executives — who are becoming the faces and voices of their organizations. Our goal is to help them be seen, heard, and trusted.

The Leadership Lesson Hidden in a Soda Can

Have you ever watched a speaker close their eyes too much when presenting? Or someone whose voice shakes when they address a team? What about constantly clearing their throat? These are coachable behaviors — and we fix them.

In over a decade of coaching high-performing individuals, I see a lot of patterns. Easy changes that could elevate someone’s career quickly. There’s one that I haven’t addressed here – and it’s important. Don’t come for me… I know how many people love their Diet Coke!

This is something that keeps coming up, and the transformation blows me away. I’ve had a few presidents of organizations who constantly cleared their throats when they spoke.

The transformation always starts the same way: I’m prepping them for a big speech, town hall, any high-stakes meeting – and they can’t get through the talk without constantly clearing their throat.

After the first run through, I’ll ask, “What do you drink all day?” And it keeps coming up. They’ll say, Diet Coke all day, no water.”

First Case Study: Company President

I’ve even had the heads of Comms or Marketing at organizations ask me not to bring up the Diet Coke issue.

“He’ll never give it up.”

And then, 30 minutes into the speech, the team is shrugging their shoulders because they know how distracting the throat clearing is.

They’re so afraid of telling the guy not to drink Diet Coke anymore.

So I do. I gently bring up the issue. In this case, I explained what it was doing to him and suggested he just try to do 50/50 Diet Coke and water for a few weeks to see what happens.

Six months later, when he gave his speech, he didn’t clear his throat. He thanked me privately on LinkedIn.

“Thank you. Nobody told me this.”

Second Case Study: Three-Day Intensive

This just happened again a few weeks ago. A guy got up in Day #1 in our three-day intensive communications training we do for larger companies and cleared his throat the entire time.

Day #2, I called it out.

“Tell me, what do you drink? What do you like to drink all day?”

He had his can right there.

“Diet Coke.”

I asked him to see what would happen if he didn’t drink it. I wasn’t forceful; it was just a suggestion.

Day #3, he got up, delivered his speech, and there was a big applause at the end. He SOUNDED like THE EXPERT. He was confident. He evoked confidence from the audience.

I asked him, “What happened? What changed? You didn’t clear your throat. There were no distractions.”

And he looked down sheepishly and said, “I haven’t had a Diet Coke in 24 hours since yesterday morning. I heard you, and I wanted to try it. I didn’t believe it, but I wanted to try it.”

He was not clearing his throat. He wasn’t dehydrated. He, he wasn’t looking for that fluid. His throat was great. He drank water, green tea, and whatever else.

Why This Matters for Every Leader

This isn’t about Diet Coke — it’s about awareness.

These kinds of transformations occur when we tweak someone’s food, liquids, sleep, movement, or supplements.

Leadership isn’t only about what you say; it’s about how you show up. The smallest daily habits can impact how your team perceives your confidence, energy, and authenticity.

When you optimize your body and voice, you amplify your influence.

When you eliminate distractions — physical, vocal, or emotional — you create space for your message to land.

That’s why our approach at JPG is holistic. We don’t just refine speeches; we strengthen the entire communicator. From hydration to posture to mindset, everything affects how powerfully you connect with an audience.